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LODI, N.J. -- People bring all kinds of animals in need of care and a loving home to Lodi-based NJ Exotic Pets.

The pet store – that specializes in reptiles and exotic mammals -- has received lizards missing limbs, ferrets with fleas and ear mites, groups of rabbits and even hedgehogs, said the store’s manager, Megan Bayatz of Clifton.

With the assistance of a veterinarian, Dr. Christopher Stancel of the Dog, Cat & Bird Clinic of Nutley, “We take them in, make them healthy again and adopt them out. We want to see them get a chance to be re-homed,” she said.

In addition to finding new homes for animals in need, the store also sells pets. But this isn’t a place for just cat and dog lovers.

“Skunks sell out very fast,” Bayatz said, when asked about the most popular animals sold. The store also sells animals like potbelly pigs, sugar gilders, chipmunks and squirrels.

Bayatz said staff spends time teaching customers about the animals and what they need and gives out sheets explaining how to feed and care for them.

“We care about the animals more than anything else,” she said, adding that staff has turned down sales when they don’t believe people will properly care for the animals.